Why You Should Keep the Paper Masking on Acrylic During Cutting and Engraving

It’s generally recommended to leave the paper protective film on both the front and back of acrylic sheets when cutting, especially if you're using a laser cutter. The protective paper serves several purposes during the cutting or engraving process:

1. Prevents Scratches: It protects the surface of the acrylic from scratches or marks that can occur during handling, especially when the material is being moved or placed in the machine.

2. Minimizes Melting and Fumes: The paper can help absorb some of the heat generated during laser cutting, which reduces the risk of warping or melting the acrylic, particularly around the edges.

3. Helps with Clean Edges: The protective paper can also help keep the cut edges clean, reducing the likelihood of residue or smoke marks sticking to the acrylic. After cutting, the paper is typically removed, leaving the acrylic surface clean and pristine.

4. Prevents Dust or Debris: It acts as a shield against any dust, debris, or fumes generated during the cutting process, preventing them from settling on the surface.

After Cutting:

Once the cutting is complete and the acrylic has cooled, you can remove the protective paper from both sides. This will reveal the clean, smooth surface of the acrylic that is free from scratches and debris. However, be sure to remove it carefully, as rushing this process may damage the surface.

Note: If you're engraving, leaving the paper on may also help keep the surface protected, but in some cases, people remove it for better contrast. Always perform a small test to see the results with or without the paper on.